I was quietly praying, Listening for God’s gentle voice.I know it was him softly saying,You must make me your first choice.

I continued to listen, Not wanting this feeling to go.Trying to understand the truth,God wanted me to know.

I am not really special,So why did you choose me?Many times I would ask him,Will you please let me be?

Then I started to realize,The true blessing he gave.That through me knowing his word,It was my family he saved.

Oh God how I thank you,For sparing my family and not me.I promise to live your word,Give this chance and you’ll see.

I have almost completed my 7th monthOf this amazing protocol.Staying active in a loving community Of people who won’t let me fall.

I had my very first herx,Only 4 weeds ago.Resting in bed a few days,Was important to know.

So by accepting Jesus as my savior,And his amazing grace.I will have all the strength I need,To finish this life changing race.

AMEN!

Peter

6/3/20171:46:31 AM

Dear Karen

Thank you for blessing us with this post. And in His love, it brought tears.

Always,peter

Karen

6/1/20174:57:16 PM

I thought so...a recognition of influence from a Higher Source for the words to come through you...to help you on your own journey, but to also speak to the hearts of those of us who share your experiences.

To me, the the "different perspective" aspect you mentioned comes through in the language of poetry which, almost always has an ethereal or lyrical quality. Maybe these are little messages from heaven to reassure us we are most loved and watched over...not alone...but maybe even in some way designated for a very special spiritual growth experience that can only result from having our soul stretched.

Our souls get stretched when we deal with various debilitating physical aspects of this disease while having little or no support or even understanding from the medical community and for some, even being denigrated to fit into the small and imprisoning box of a DOP diagnosis. So much more along these lines, but we on this website are of the mindset to not spend our valuable energy on these kinds of thoughts. In my opinion, the sheer strength of character it takes to overcome these circumstances takes much more than the average person could find inside him or herself on any given day. Because of this we are forced to turn toward our Creator, and in doing so, we form a deeper and more authentic relationship with our Maker and a more sensitive perspective about life and what's truly important.

These are valuable lessons...and I believe your beautiful words are reassurance of the value we gain from these hard won lessons...little messages from God...and your very special relationship with Him shines through...and allows you to be open to His words coming through you as a message for you and for the rest of us too.

I believe reassuring messages from Beyond are all around us if we stop long enough to look and listen. A few great writers have expressed the same sentiments...

Jack Kerouac once said, "I'll just sit down and let it flow out of me...It's the Holy Ghost that comes through you."

William Faulkner said, "Had I not written these books, another hand would have written them for me."

In reference to his book, The Old Man and the Sea, Hemmingway said, "It was as though someone else had written it."

I've experienced this myself on occasion...have written poetry as well and in doing so have looked up later and thought to myself..."I didn't write that"...and the poetry I found myself "writing" was all very spiritual in nature as well.

In reference to the above, I'd characterize my own experiences in this kind of writing as was best expressed by one of my favorite writers, James Lee Burke.

He said, "God might choose fools and people who glow with neurosis for his partners in creation, but he doesn't make mistakes."

Thank you again Aunt Laura, and know you're a very special carrier of wonderful messages to all of us who need so much to hear them often.

Blessings,

Karen

Deanna

6/1/201710:22:26 AM

Dearest (Aunt) Laura,

THANK YOU for continuing to bless us with your BEAUTIFUL poetry!!! I am so touched by EVERY word and TRULY in awe of the following...

“Please live for me,Since I died for you!”

VERY powerful, VERY comforting, VERY simple directions from above which also make it VERY inspiring!!!

I am sooooo INCREDIBLY grateful to be on this journey with you, my sister in Christ!!!!

Love, Peace & Prayers,Deanna

Laura (aunt)

5/31/201710:14:10 PM

Karen,

I love your thoughts on poetry. Yes, many times it seems as if the words flow through me but definitely from a higher source. Poetry also makes it easier to communicate my thoughts from a different perspective.

Thank you for your most kind words as well as your profound insights. May God Bless you, Karen.

In Christ Love,Laura

Karen

5/31/20172:44:51 PM

Laura...your poetry is so beautiful.

Some great writers have said the words come through them rather than from them. Do you ever feel these words coming into your awareness in a stream of consciousness that seems to come very quickly and easily? I believe this is true for some especially in the case of poetry...the lyrical nature and beauty of poetry seems to bypass our reason and touch us on a deeper and more emotional level. Your poems go straight to the heart of the reader...especially to the hearts of all of us who share your journey. No doubt you have talent...but perhaps on some level, these words may have come to you from a Higher Source to heal your soul and to heal ours too.

Warmly,

Karen

Laura (aunt)

5/31/201711:34:38 AM

My Journey through Poetry

I was feeling lost and lonely,Trying to face another day.So I looked up to the heavens,And I started to pray.

I was searching for answers,As I many times do.I heard; “Please live for me,Since I died for you!”

Understanding the message,Jesus wanted me to know.It was at that very moment,The tears started to flow.

I will carry my crossWith the poise you gave me.Knowing I must keep the faith,In order to one day be free.

I have almost completed,The sixth month of this race.I will continue to healWith the love of His grace.

Taking 17 drops of the WPS,With headaches though few.Anxiously waiting for a herxKnowing God will see me through.

Thank you Jesus Christ,I will spread the word each day.Through your death and resurrection,You have been leading the way.

Peter

5/10/20171:05:14 AM

Smiles....

As expected, Laura, your poetry tugs at the heart. I think you are building a real following! Thank you for the smiles you fuel.

By the way, have I told you that "you are winning?" Stay in the fight!

Always,peter

Laura (aunt)

5/7/20173:23:40 PM

My Journey through Poetry

As I approach the sixth month on this protocol,The truth most revealed to me.Is the importance of FAITH in my Savior,Knowing this I will one day be free.

I will no longer let this disease have any power,For I am determined to win this race!I thank God for this loving community,As well as his amazing and saving Grace.

Making sure to eat a clean healthy diet,Taking the required supplements each day.Paying less attention to the symptoms,Accepting that it is God who is leading the way.

I actually hugged some members of my family,By having FAITH from God above.He will protect them from this toxic disease,Allowing me to feel the warmth of their love.

I pray that God gives hope to the othersWho are trying to win this incredible race.Heavenly Father I know they are all worthy,So please heal them with your most amazing Grace.

F is for Finding my Lord’s word.A is for Accepting his truth.I is for Identifying his profound message.T is for Thanking him for showing the way.H is for Happiness that you find from his love.

FAITH is needed on this journey. Have FAITH in the protocol, FAITH in this community, and FAITH in our Lord to heal us in his time.

John B

4/24/20171:43:34 PM

Dear Aunt Laura,

Your provocative writings are a gift and a powerful weapon against the darkness. What an amazing legacy you are leaving for your precious grandchildren and indeed for the entire body of Christ! His Truth and His Grace does set us free.

Thank you for the courage and love displayed in your obedient determination. May He bless your efforts to glorify Him beyond your wildest dreams!

Love Always,

John

Deborah

4/23/201710:09:58 PM

Dear Laura,All I can say is WOW!!!!God has really blessed you with a great abundance of writing poetry...This new poem really is from deep in your heart. I can tell your inspiration is from how much you have opened your heart to the Holy Spirit. Thank you! You poetry is such an inspiration to me as well as so many others. I see a book of these coming out in your future!Love, Your Sister in Christ, Deborah

Laura (aunt)

4/21/20177:15:36 AM

My Journey through Poetry

Today I asked Jesus my Savior,“Have I not loved you with all of my heart?”And if your answer is no,Then please tell me how I must start.

I begin each and every day reading scripture,Searching for the truth you want me to see.So if I am praying and truly believing,Oh Lord; why have you not set me free?

This week I have had more biting than usual,With rashes on my legs, back, and face.These symptoms have caused me much sorrow,Thinking now my life has become a disgrace.

I am beginning the fifth month on this protocol,Making sure to take my supplements each day.Feeling anger toward this hectic life I am living,I closed my teary eyes and started to pray.

Dear God won’t you help me and guide me,By telling me the things I must do?As I continue to search for your answer,Please know I am counting on you.

So I think of the blessings He has sent me,My children and grandchildren whose love I hold dear.Then all of a sudden I once again realize,It is for them that I must persevere!

Thank you my heavenly Father,I am trying to listen to you.Please forgive me in times of self-pity,I will embrace your word which is true.

I understand now what God really wanted,It was this journey I needed to start.When I cross the finish line as a winner,He will know I love him with all of my heart!

Deborah

4/4/20174:10:10 PM

Dear Laura ,

Thanks for your inspiration through poetry and prayers.

It is an inspiration to all of us.

Love in Christ, Deborah

Laura (aunt)

4/3/20177:19:49 AM

My Journey Through Poetry

I love my new brothers in ChristAll three; Peter, John, and Mel.It is through their compassion, love, and knowledgeI realize I will not fail.

I have been on the protocol for 4 ½ monthsFeeling cold with headaches and bladder pain.Realizing the importance of drinking more waterIn order for my health to sustain.

Still seeing debris each day in my environmentDesperately wishing it would all go away.Praying; dear God my heavenly FatherGive me strength to get through this day.

I continue each morning to read scriptureListening for the message that needs to be heard.Trying harder to live a life that will serve himBy spreading his powerful word.

I miss my family more and more each dayBut my sadness I must keep inside.While searching for some profound meaningThat I know only God will provide.

I look forward to that day in my futureWhen I am cured from this through and through.While I am kneeling to thank my dear FatherI will smile and say; “God You Always Knew!”

Sarah

3/26/20177:32:04 PM

Laura - You have an amazing gift with words. They are so true and very comforting.

I have a feeling you are going to help SO many people with your poetry. I can't help but wonder if this is why you developed this disease since I agree with everyone that yours is such a unique way of expressing yourself? Did you write poetry before you got sick?

Whatever the reason why you developed this disease, I believe on of those reasons is because your poetry is touching all of us who read it and it's helping us all heal....one day at a time.

Love,Sarah

peter

3/26/20173:40:19 AM

Dear Laura

Again, your poetry is wonderful. Such a great way to testify to the difficulty in your journey with special words that reveal your struggles with grace.

Keep them coming!

Love,peter

Laura

3/24/20179:55:32 PM

My Journey Through Poetry

This journey at times is not easyI often get lost through the day.So I close my eyes and pray harderFor my Father to show me the way.

I am starting my fourth month on the protocolNoticing new things I do not understand.Like roughness on my neck, eyes, and faceAnd new scratches on both of my hands.

Once again I am constantly cleaningMy environment at least once a day.Praying and seeking my SaviorBegging please won’t you take this away?

I had a vision of the way God is guiding meHe is actually taking hold of my hand.While leading me through the darkest valleyHe is telling me; I must take a stand.

So again I will stay on this journeyAccepting there is more I must do.For the sake and the love of my familyWith God’s help I will see it through.

Some advice to my fellow warriorsDuring your darkest and gloomiest day.Close your eyes and picture our SaviorTaking your hand while leading the way.

Chasity

3/22/20173:57:46 PM

LauraYou expressing your journey through poetry is so beautiful. It's very inspirational and appreciate you for sharing. Yes God hears all our crys while suffering through this toxic disease but He is with us the whole way. He will see us through our darkest days. Mel and Peter are wonderful along with our great community so whenever you need call me my friend. We can do this together. Just know it gets better.

Laura

3/21/20176:22:53 PM

Dear Paula,

I am writing these for my brothers and sisters in Christ to help us through this journey. So, I would be honored if you printed my poetry to place on your refrigerator. Thank you for the most kind words and encouragement.

May you continue to gain strength with this disease with the help of our Savior Jesus Christ! I look forward to the day when we are free and have completely won the race!

Love In Christ,Laura

Paula

3/21/20179:54:14 AM

Hello Laura!

WOW! Truly amazing! They just keep getting better! Keep them coming! Do you mind if i copy this and post it on my fridge as a reminder? LOVE!!!

Thank you!

Love always, Paula

Deanna

3/19/201711:03:54 PM

Hi Laura,

I have enjoyed "all" of your Journey through Poetry posts but must say, I found your most recent post to be so touching, moving and inspiring that it brought me to tears!!

Thank you for sharing your God given talents with us!! You are MOST definitely one of many blessings I've received on this healing journey!!!

With this disease I will not let define meOnce again I am learning to cope.So understanding the science involvedHas taught me to know there is hope.

As I start week eleven on the protocolI still notice fibers all over again.I remind myself of the sloganThey are better “out than in.”

Started taking 9 drops of WPSHaving headaches and symptoms like the flu.Feeling a little more anxiousKnowing there is a herx I soon must get through.

Continuing to eat a clean dietAnd praying to our God up above.Making sure to attend conference callsWhere people share ideas and their love.

While cleaning up my environmentI try to find humor in all that I see.I tell these things since they do not pay rentThe time has come for them to all leave me.

And yet there are days I find myself cryingBecause there is always so much I must do.Then I think of the blessings and my familyRemembering there is a God who is true.

Once again, this disease will not define meI know all my prayers will be heard.So I close my eyes and open my heartAnd listen for my Lord’s wondrous word.

Paula

3/13/20178:59:23 AM

Hello Laura,

Thank you so much for your post! You are amazing writing poetry like this, describing your feelings and symptoms. Very nice!

Love always, Paula

Shari

3/11/20175:19:52 PM

Laura,

Thank you so much for your wonderful poetry. It was so touching!

peter

3/10/20178:59:53 PM

Hi Laura

Your written poetry as how you chose to share your journey is very unique and very special. There are so many different learning styles in different people. For some of those people, I believe this thread will be very helpful. The creative way of your poetry is wonderful. You are a blessing!

Strength and Love,peter

Laura

3/9/20176:48:03 AM

Ruth,

Thank you for the kind words.

Two different continents, one GOD! We are all connected through one GOD. I pray for you and all who are in this race; a race we did not ask to enter. However, in this journey, I hope we all come to realize the many positive aspects of our life and cross that finish line as winners.

May God Bless you Ruth, and please stay in the race to win your life back!

Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.Psalm 139:23-24

Love In Christ,Laura

Ruth W

3/7/20176:12:45 PM

Dear Laura,

Thank you so much for your poems. I love reading them and I identify so much with them. Thank you for contributing to the forum in this way. I'm so grateful for you and others here as its so wonderful to know there are others fighting the same battle with the same faith and hope in God.

Even though we may live on different continents I feel so close to you and the others that post here and join in the calls.

Congratulations on being in your third month. I can remember the time passing so slowly at that stage and wanting desperately to get to the 12 month point. I know at this stage each day feels such a battle to get everything done and stick to it all strictly. Amazingly it all does get easier as the months go by and it seems to just become a part of normal life and life starts to feel normal again.

Looking forward to hearing more of your progress.

Laura

3/6/20178:41:31 PM

My Journey Through Poetry

Each waking day of this new lifeI realize how much I must persist.For the Laura that I once knewTo this day no longer exist.

I am on the third month of this protocolMy neck and my face feel rough.This situation at times is depressingBut I tell myself it’s time to get tough.

I am now up to 7 drops of the WPSHaving headaches though only a few.Making sure I have a clean healthy dietStaying on the protocol I know that is true.

Day after day I am constantly cleaningTrying to understand what those before me knew.That as my health continues to get betterMy environment would get better too.

There was so much I once took for grantedThis new disease has helped to know. The most important things are God and my familyFor them my strength must repeatedly grow.

I still try to make sure I am restingAs my body continues to heal.But I know it is up to my SaviorSo I continue to pray for his will.

Laura

2/26/20177:16:32 PM

I wanted to share this hymn to express my thoughts this week. I hope it touches your heart the way it touched mine.

In Christ Love,Laura

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sgm9lkTNQmc

peter

2/12/201710:16:18 PM

Dear Laura

"Absolutely beautiful!" Since this is now your thread, I look forward to the experience of what you will share here in the future. You are now completely "in the fight." So settle into slow and steady and just "stay the course." You will get well. Believe it!

God Bless,peter

Deb

2/12/20179:47:39 PM

Dear Laura,

I heard you read this at the prayer meeting today and think it is so beautiful. I'm so glad you posted it as I can come back and read it for inspiration. It really hits home!

I am a newbie just close to hitting my 4th week on the protocol. In this short time I feel like I have found family on this site.

I appreciate your input on each call I've been in on. You have a wisdom that shows from battling this insidious disease and your walk with the Lord.

Thank you for being and staying with this community to help others. And thank you again for this beautiful poem.

God Bless you Sister!Deb (the warrior)

Sarah

2/12/20178:44:34 PM

Hi Laura,

I was on the prayer call earlier and had to hang up before it ended. I'm new to the group and wished I'd spoken up at the beginning when Mel gave me a chance...It was my first prayer group and I was the first person, so I didn't know what to say...However, I cried a few times hearing other's stories and absolutely LOVED your prayer. It probably rings true for every person on this forum.

Thank you so much for sharing it.

Laura **

2/11/20173:15:02 PM

My Journey Through Poetry

My life has changed forever, I am not sure of the moment or day.But I know I have started a journey which was lonely in every way.

I began to search for an answer; that not one doctor had.My health was beginning to fail me,and my heart became very sad.

Why is this happening to me? I tried to live a life that was right.I prayed for God to just take me,I did not have the courage or fight.

I would look in the mirror with disbelief,again to the Lord I would pray.Why God has this happened to me;is there anything I can say?

Each morning I woke up to this nightmareNot understanding what I could do.I became very angry with my SaviorStill not believing that this could be true.

And still I would search for some answers,Because of my children’s undying love.Knowing that somehow God could save me,My eyes looked to the heavens above.

It has been almost two years that I have been trying,to get healthy and become all I can be.Through this journey I have come to realize, God has a new plan for me.

So now I embrace my Lord daily,Praying for the strength somehow.To severe my God with the Glory,He has deserved both then and now.

I know he has answered my prayers,and led me to a place that is true.So vitamins, rest, and have faith,are the most important things I need to do.

Each day I start off reading scripture,God’s message is very profound.I learn from the people he sent me,Understanding there is love all around.

It is my goal to stay through this journeyThe rewards will one day be great.I have beautifully amazing grandchildrenI want to hold before it’s too late.

I will embrace this new life God has sent meKnowing he is leading and guiding the way.I realize GOD chose me to help others,And this I must do every day.

I now walk through this life without fearBecause my GOD has a mission for me.Thank you God for the courage and strength,I Love you and your truth; which now has set me free.